Wagner’s Intense DL Mainstay with Grit and Growth
Franklin Simms, a 6-2, 280-pound senior defensive lineman from Atlantic City, NJ, has evolved into Wagner’s defensive line mainstay after appearing in all 11 games in 2023, recording 14 tackles and 0.5 tackles for loss[1]. In 2025, he logged 4 total tackles (3 solo, 1 assist) with no sacks or forced fumbles[6][7]. His differentiators include relentless intensity, a physical personality that commands the line, and steady development from a depth special-teamer in 2022 to a core defender[1]. With no reported injury history and a reputation for high-pressure plays, Simms is a strong fit for teams seeking a gritty, reliable DL who brings both toughness and consistency. He’s not just a stat contributor—he’s a locker-room leader who elevates the entire defense.
